Roundabout

The roundabout at Washington Blvd. and Oak Street is now complete and traffic is following a circular flow. Learn more about the Oak Street Improvement Project.

Why roundabouts?

Roundabouts improve safetyPrior to the roundabout, accidents at Washington/Oak were three times the expected rate for this type of intersection. According to the Federal Highway Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, where a roundabout replaced a signal or stop intersection:

Roundabouts are economical - No signal equipment - No power bills, less maintenance

Other project benefits: - Improved traffic flow, especially for expected increase in traffic in the future - Fewer stops and accelerations - Less engine idling - Provide a distinctive entry point to downtown - Another step in downtown revitalization as envisioned by the Downtown Specific Plan

It's really not as complicated as you might think. Choose your lane in a multi-lane roundabout the same way you would in a traditional multi-lane intersection. Watch this short video for more information.

Video courtesy City of Indianapolis

Use the right lane to turn right.

Use either lane to go straight.

Use the left lane to turn left.

Use the left lane to make a U-turn.

When approaching a roundabout - Reduce your speed - Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists - Be prepared to stop if necessary, i.e. yield to circulating traffic on the left

Within a roundabout - Do not stop - You have the right-of-way over entering traffic - Always keep to the right of the central island and travel in a counterclockwise direction